Maintaining a wood deck is a job in it of itself. Wood decking requires annual scrubbing, bleaching, and staining-not to mention having to replace the occasional board that has become rotted, warped, or splintered. Composite decking has become a popular alternative due to its minimal maintenance requirements. Considering a composite deck for your home? This is what you need to know:

Photo: Trex

When it first became available in the 1990’s, composite decking came with a higher price tag and an extremely limited color range (which was comprised primarily of grays). As technologies advanced, manufacturers were able to create a durable product that closely resembled the look of real wood. They were able to replicate the look of cherry, walnut, and beyond.

Most composite decks are made from sawdust, plastic bags, and used plastic milk jugs. Not only is this good for the environment, it also allows the decking to last longer in the elements than wood decks. Wood decks commonly rot, mold, and splinter. Luckily, composite decks aren’t prone to these issues. A composite deck may experience the occasional surface mold or discoloration, this can be easily taken care of with a household cleaner and brush.

One of the main reasons why many homeowners end up choosing composite for their decking material of choice is due to its minimal upkeep. Not only do wood decks have a tendency to splinter or rot, they also require the addition of pesticides and metals during the pressure treating process. While this aids in pest prevention, it is harmful for the environment and can be dangerous to children and animals as it deteriorates over time. Composite doesn’t require these harmful additives since it is naturally resistant to insects, mold, and decay.

Balducci Exteriors recently completed this composite deck off of this two-story home addition. The deck extends 8′ off of the addition, which provides the perfect amount of space to include some seating and a small table. The composite decking that the homeowners selected is Trex Tropics composite decking in the color “Tiki-Torch,” which beautifully accents the brick on the back of the home.

Are you tired of the constant upkeep of your current wood deck? Not sure if composite decking is worth the investment? Feel free to contact Balducci Exteriors with any questions you may have about composite decking; we are happy to help you out!

Your backyard is your very own sanctuary to relax, play with the kids, and entertain family and friends. Want to step it up a notch? Consider adding a deck addition to your home. After all, they are they perfect place for outdoor entertainment.

Deck additions are a great investment for your home. According to Remodeling Magazine’s Cost vs. Value report for 2017 (www.costvsvalue.com), they can return up to 62.7% of the initial costs for a deck addition in the Richmond, Virginia area. Additionally, decks are a sought after feature for many homebuyers. Homebuyers often want to see a family friendly home that they can see themselves spending time in, this includes the outdoor space. Having a deck addition will make your home that much more desirable when it comes time to sell!

A deck can be the perfect way to add on some extra entertaining space without the cost of a full room addition. Home additions can take months to complete. Additionally, decks are usually much less invasive than home additions since the bulk of the work is kept outside of the home.

A deck can improve the beauty of your home. Decks can be built in virtually any design and style to suit your home. One of the main factors that determines what your deck will ultimately look like is the material that you choose. Some decking materials include: pressure treated wood, composite, aluminum, and plastic.

Pressure treated wood decking is the most common material for deck additions. This is perhaps because it is the most affordable option on the market. While you will see a high return on investment with a wood deck, it will require annual maintenance.

Plastic decking is by far the most weather resistant decking material available. However, some cheaper versions can get extremely slippery when wet.

On the contrary, aluminum decking is extremely durable and slip-resistant. This material can stand up to harsh weather conditions and is much lighter than other materials. Unfortunately, it will also make the biggest dent in your budget.

Composite decking is becoming a more and more popular option. This is because it has the beauty of wood without the upkeep. Some major downsides with composite is that it can be slippery, is susceptible to stains, and tends to be a little more costly than other options.

Ultimately, the material that you choose for your deck is dependent upon your budget and the time that you plan on devoting to upkeeps. If you have any further questions choosing a decking material that is right for you, feel free to contact us for a free consultation and we would be happy to help you.

Whatever the reason for wanting to add a deck to your home, make sure it is done properly. After all, a deck made of quality materials should provide you and your family years of enjoyment. For expert deck installation in the metro Richmond, Virginia area, feel free to contact Balducci Exteriors with any questions.

Outdoor decks are a great way to add an entertainment area to your home. What many people do not know is that there are many available decking materials for you to choose from. The available materials include wood, plastic, aluminum, and composite. Composite decking is a great option because it is low maintenance, has an attractive appearance, and it is durable.

Photo: Pinterest

Low Maintenance

One of the biggest benefits that comes with composite decking is that it does away with the burden of constant upkeep. Wood decks need to be re-stained, power washed, and sanded regularly to maintain their appearance. Composite decking doesn’t require re-staining or sanding.

Additionally, wood decks also require the addition of pesticides and metals during the pressure treating process. While this helps to prevent pests, it is bad for the environment and can be dangerous to children and animals as it deteriorates over time. Composite doesn’t require these harmful additives since it is naturally resistant to insects, mold, and decay.

Durability

Composite decking is comprised of waste wood, plastic, and other recycled materials. Since it combines wood with plastic, it lasts longer in the elements than wood decks. Wood decks are known to rot, mold, and splinter. On the other hand, composite decks don’t experience these problems. The only thing that you need to look for in composite decking is the occasional surface mold and discoloration. This can be easily taken care of with a household cleaner and a brush.

Appearance

Many homeowners choose to go with composite decking because of their consistent coloring. Since they are manufactured, each board will look identical to the next. On the other hand, wood decks are known to fade to a dusty gray after a few years if they are not properly maintained.

Photo: Pinterest

Since composite decking is manufactured, it is constantly improving with advancements in technology and the manufacturing process. Although composite decks are a great option, they are a little more pricey than wood decks. However, a composite deck doesn’t require much maintenance – which means more time can be spent enjoying your outdoor living space with your family.

Do you plan on moving in the near future? Many homeowners who prepare to move within the next few years often feel overwhelmed at the amount of home improvement projects that they feel their home needs. Since most people don’t have unlimited budgets, it is good to know which projects will give you the best bang for your buck. Your home’s exterior is the first thing guests will notice about your home; thus, it is important to keep your curb appeal updated. Even worse, it can steer potential buyers away.

Whether you plan on moving in the near future, or you simply want to upgrade your curb appeal; researching the return on investment for home improvement projects is a must, especially in the metro Richmond area. According to the 2017 Cost vs. Value report (www.costvsvalue.com), here are the top three outdoor upgrades with the highest return on investment in Richmond, Virginia:

3. Wood Deck Addition

Photo: remodelingcalculator.org

A wood deck addition is a great way to add some outdoor living space and value to your home. Wood deck additions have an impressive ROI of 62.7%. Although there are many options for wood decks, the most popular choices are lumber and cedar. One of the major drawbacks with wood decks is that it requires lots of maintenance.

An important question to ask yourself is whether you plan on hiring someone to do the maintenance, or will you be doing the work yourself? The cost of hiring someone to keep your deck in good shape can get costly quick, which is why composite decks are a popular option. Although composite decks require less maintenance, their high costs cause their lower ROI.

2. Steel Entry Door Replacement

Photo: Pella

A steel entry door replacement has an ROI of 81.5% in Richmond, Virginia. Steel is durable, weather resistant, and doesn’t warp or rot like it’s wood counterpart. Compared to wood and some fiberglass options, steel entry doors are relatively affordable. Since wood doors require routine sanding and re-coating, steel entry doors are a good option for homeowners who prefer an entry door with low maintenance. Additionally, they provide good insulation (because of their foam core) and can even save you a couple of dollars on your heating and cooling bill!

1. Manufactured Stone Veneer

Photo: Boral Versetta Stone

The project with the highest return on investment in Richmond, Virginia for 2017 is manufactured stone veneer with an ROI of 102%. This is even higher than the national average of 89.4% ROI. Stone veneer creates a feeling of ageless character and aesthetic. In addition, it is manufactured to withstand time; most manufactures offer a 50 year limited warranty.

Manufactured stone veneer is one-third the weight of full-thickness stone; thus, it can be adhered to most wall surfaces. Since the product is manufactured, it comes in a variety of colors and textures-which closely resemble the look of authentic stone.

These are the top three home improvement projects with the highest ROI for the Richmond, Virginia area. However, you should choose your next home improvement project based off of what you believe would be the best value for you and your family. As always, call an expert for any questions on home improvement projects.